Embrace the imaginative power of the arts.

by Kirk Giles

The arts have given us numerous ways to communicate messages, thoughts and feelings. Movies, music, literature, paintings, sculptures, theatre and dance have all been used to inform, inspire and shape the attitudes and actions of others.

For a long time, the Christian community has been playing “catch up” in the arts. Take movies as an example. If we were to be honest, Christian movies are often not very well done. Many are limited simply by financial capacity to provide the best quality.

Yet, while we marvel at the high production quality that the world seems to offer, we must remember that the original artist, God, cannot be matched.

This past summer, I was able to take my family on a vacation in British Columbia. As we were driving through the mountains, my daughter said, “Oh … wow!” Those words have never come from her lips for any movie, song or picture. She was in awe of the artistic handiwork of our Creator.

As image-bearers of God, those who utilize their artistic ability are able to reflect the creativity of God while also pointing others to Him. This fall, the movie Courageous opened in theatres. This is an excellent Christian-based movie I would be proud to bring any person to see. Christian musicians are strengthening their music and increasing their influence. Other artists are using their skills to make a difference in their sphere of influence.

History is full of exceptional artists who have created to the glory of the Creator.

Any believer who is using their God-given creative skills to encourage and inspire other people, to communicate truth, is representing God’s desire to inspire us with His creativity and to point us towards the One who is greater than our imaginations could ever conceive.

The world is moving quickly; we all understand that. Those who are artistic are a gift from God to the rest of us who can only draw stick figures. When we actually stop to enjoy their artistry, we put those much needed pauses in our life that allow us to be filled with curiosity, awe and wonder.

In this edition of SEVEN, we want to tell the stories of some believers and followers of Jesus who are using their artistic talents. The next time your wife wants to go to an art show or your children want to see a concert or you are listening to music in your car, pause and take the time to enjoy the art and remember the incredible creativity of our God. He is our highest inspiration and the greatest Artist.

Kirk Giles is the husband of Shannon, father to four children and president of Promise Keepers Canada. He also serves as an elder in his church and is actively involved in home community of Paris, Ontario

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The article above is featured in the November/December 2011 issue of SEVEN magazine.

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